Are part-worn tyres safe to buy? +
Part-worn tyres carry significant risks. While they are legal to sell in the UK, studies have found that a large proportion fail to meet legal standards — many have been previously repaired improperly, have internal damage not visible from the outside, or are close to the legal tread limit. The small saving is rarely worth the risk. New budget tyres from reputable brands often cost only £15–£25 more and come with a full warranty.
How do I read my tyre size? +
Your tyre size is printed on the sidewall in a format like 205/55R16 91V. The first number (205) is the width in millimetres, the second (55) is the aspect ratio as a percentage of the width, R means radial construction, and 16 is the wheel diameter in inches. The number after (91) is the load index and the letter (V) is the speed rating. Your vehicle handbook and the sticker inside the driver's door frame show the correct size for your car.
Is it safe to drive on a slow puncture to reach a tyre fitter? +
If the tyre is only slightly low and you can maintain safe control of the vehicle, you can drive a short distance at reduced speed — no more than a few miles at 20–30mph. Check the tyre regularly as you drive. If the tyre is visibly flat, the sidewall is bulging, or the car feels unstable, do not drive at all. Call a mobile tyre fitter to come to your location instead.
Are winter tyres worth it in the UK? +
Winter tyres use a softer rubber compound and a different tread pattern that provides significantly better grip below 7°C — not just in snow, but on cold, wet roads. In independent tests, winter tyres reduce braking distances by up to 11 metres compared to summer tyres in cold conditions. If you regularly drive in rural areas, hills, or northern parts of the UK, they can be a worthwhile investment from October to March.
What is the difference between budget and premium tyres? +
Premium tyres from manufacturers like Michelin, Continental, and Bridgestone consistently outperform budget alternatives in independent braking tests — often stopping several metres shorter in wet conditions. They also tend to last longer, produce less road noise, and offer better fuel economy. For a typical family car, the difference between a budget and premium tyre is usually £25–£40 per tyre, which most drivers recoup through longer tread life.
What is the legal minimum tyre tread depth in the UK? +
The legal minimum tread depth in the UK is 1.6mm across the central three-quarters of the tyre, around its entire circumference. However, most motoring organisations recommend replacing tyres at 3mm, as braking performance drops significantly below this level. Driving on tyres below 1.6mm carries a fine of up to £2,500 and 3 penalty points per illegal tyre — so four bald tyres could mean a £10,000 fine and 12 points.